Indian students are fond of studying abroad, and Canada is now a preferred destination among many Indian students. Canada has outstanding value in terms of quality education, a multicultural atmosphere, and employment after completing school. However, the common question that both students and their parents ask is, "Can I afford to study in Canada with a budget of 15 lakhs?" Yes, it can be done, but it must be planned properly, considering the proper course choice and probably some additional support in the form of part-time employment or scholarships. In the following blog, we will unpack the cost and look at affordable alternatives, as well as give tips on how to ensure that your dream to study in Canada can take place on a budget.

Understanding the Cost Structure

These are some areas of cost to study in Canada:

1. Tuition Fees

Your largest item of expense is tuition. On average:

  • Diploma/Certificate Programs: CAD 7,000 15,000/yr

  • Undergraduate Programs: CAD 12,000-20,000 / year

  • Postgraduate Programs: 13,000 to 22,000 CAD/year



This would be INR 4.5-13 lakhs annually. Diploma or short-term certificate courses offered in community colleges are your only hope to stay within your 15-lakh budget.

2. Living Expenses

Cost a yearly amount (CAD 10,000) of CAD 10,000 (about 6 lakhs), which comprised boarding, food, transport, etc. However, expenses may be minimised by:

  • Deciding to live in common quarters

  • Domestic cooking

  • Even student discounts and travel by bus/public transport

3. Other Costs

  • Visa and application costs: 15,000 to 20,000 INR (approx.).

  • GIC (Guaranteed investment certificate): CAD 10,000 (~ 6 lakhs) as part of the Visa under SDS

  • Health Care: approximately CAD 600900/annual

Study in Canada: Is 15 Lakhs Enough?

When you plan well to study in Canada, the 15 lakhs would be good enough to pay off your tuition fees and a part of your living expenses in the first year. Here’s how:

Community Colleges

There are some cheap but reputable schools, such as:

  • Northern College

  • Humber College

  • Fanshawe College

  • Lambton College

  • Selkirk College

Most of them provide programs that range between CAD 8,000 and CAD 13,000 per year.

✔️ Apply for Scholarships

Although merit scholarships for international students are competitive, many colleges present entrance awards, bursaries, or need-based financial aid. You can apply and increase your prospects.

✔️ Work Part-Time

To study in Canada, international students are allowed to have 20 hours/week of work when they are in class and full-time when they are off classes. The students will be able to make about CAD 800-1000 monthly, which can assist in supporting the living expenses.

✔️ Explore Short-Term Programs

The 1-2 year diploma or postgraduate courses are not only cheaper, but they also lead to receiving a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) at the end of training and could result in permanent residency. 

Tips to Stay Within Budget

Go to such cities as Winnipeg or Halifax (or Regina) rather than to such costly ones as Toronto or even Vancouver.

  • Prepare your food and do not eat out a lot.

  • Purchase second-hand textbooks and access free online resources.

  • Take the bus and student discount cards.

  • Assign a budget per month, and keep expenditure records.

With such approaches, it is easy to study in Canada even on a limited budget and have a satisfying experience.

Conclusion

Thus, is it possible to study in Canada with 15 lakhs? Why not? If you do it wisely by selecting cheap conditions and programmes and using work possibilities, you can. Canada is also an ideal place with its flexible education system, work-study opportunities, and an exclusive entry system that welcomes Indian budget students.

Call to Action

Are you interested in studying in Canada but do not want to impoverish yourself? Join Education Vibes to learn about affordable colleges, scholarships, and advice from professionals regarding visas, admissions, and other topics. We will assist in making your 15-lakh budget a wonderful experience of international education!